Monday, September 24, 2012

You know that money tree that you have in the backyard, on the balcony? The one where money grows on trees?

You are a smart and savvy shopper, so those dollars shouldn't be falling off the tree so readily.
For the holiday season, you can save especially on Cyber Monday. Put that money back on the tree,
and have a more balanced cash profile for the shopping season.

1. Take notes when listening to your friends and family when they talk to you and others. Often, the hardest part of shopping is knowing what to get our favorite people. If you listen throughout the year, you might find a few clues into what they may want. it's always well received if you give a gift with the actual recipient in mind. Our gift recipients come in all ages and styles, so try to pay attention and you will not be disappointed, nor will they. Remember, it is the thought that counts.

2. Plan Now ~ Other than major retailers, start browsing smaller specialty sites, like addoway.com now. Educate yourself now and keep track. If you haven't started thinking about the unique gift purchases you will be making, do so now! Many savvy consumers shop and buy early, so some coveted products may be out of stock. It can go without saying that buying early pays off in so many ways. You can tailor this concept too and just buy something once a week, starting now. By Christmas, you should have all your shopping done. 3. Pin ~ I like this one so much. It couldn't be easier! Make yourself a pinboard on pinterest to keep track of the things you like and want for holiday gifts. Making a pin board will help keep all your favorites in one place for easy referral. It can be helpful to create separate boards for certain people or you can keep everything in one board, it's totally up to you. You customize to your liking and use it all year round. If you have lots of friends and family following you on pinterest, you might want to create a new account just for your shopping lists.

4. Coupon Codes: Check out sites like retailmenot.comfor they have special coupon codes for online retailers all the time.

5. Watch Cyber Monday Deals for this year on our own pinboard for gathering deals we and others found.
Plan your strategy for where to go, what to buy. Again, you can make your own pinboard for Cyber Monday.

If you haven't done so yet, tuck away a few dollars each week. By the time it comes to making serious purchases, it will be less painful.

And remember those gifts that do not include money, but your time or talent:

"You give but little when you give of your possessions.
It is when you give of yourself that you truly give." Kahlil Gibran
If you know someone who is in need of support, try helping them with
your given talents and gifts. Some DIY, homemade gifts pinned.